A Gloucestershire primary school is facing closure after experiencing a significant fall in pupil numbers.

Following a review by the governing body of Minsterworth Church of England Primary, Gloucestershire County Council has today started a six-week consultation into the future of the school.

The review was triggered by a serious decline in pupil numbers over recent years.

There are currently only 26 children at the school with no change in pupil numbers anticipated in the near future.

Government policy means that schools are funded on a pupil-by-pupil basis, so this reduction in pupil numbers means that the school receives a smaller budget to operate each year.

The governing body's review has shown that, due to these low numbers, there is not enough projected funding for future years and have reached the conclusion that the school is no longer financially viable.

As such, the board of governors has asked the county council and Gloucestershire Diocese to give consideration to closing the school..

Cllr Richard Boyles, cabinet member for children and young people at Gloucestershire County Council, said: "The board of governors has asked us to look at closing the school because so few pupils want to go there. Now I want to hear what local people, parents and staff have to say about it.

"We've arranged information events for parents and residents to find out more information about the proposals for Minsterworth C of E Primary.

"I hope local residents can find the time to complete the online questionnaire and give us their views."

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